Nepali pickles find their way to global markets

Nepali pickles are making their mark on the global culinary scene, with exports reaching more than a dozen countries. Small-scale entrepreneurs are transforming traditional kitchen recipes into thriving commercial ventures, showcasing the growing international appeal of these flavorful condiments.

Data from the Department of Customs reveals that Nepal exported pickles worth Rs211.69 million in the first 11 months of the last fiscal year. Italy emerged as the top market, importing pickles valued at Rs37.38 million, followed closely by Australia and the United Kingdom. Interestingly, India, despite being Nepal's largest overall trading partner, accounts for a minimal share of pickle exports, while importing a significantly larger volume from Nepal.

The surge in export numbers is attributed to a growing wave of commercial pickle makers. These entrepreneurs, ranging from homemakers to former lawmakers, have successfully turned a household tradition into a lucrative business opportunity. Sangeeta Pandey, founder of ‘Aama Ko Achar’, exemplifies this trend. She started her business with a modest investment of Rs3,000 and 10 kilograms of red cherry pepper, and has since expanded her production to tonnes of pickles, utilizing a variety of ingredients like bamboo shoots, bitter gourd, mangoes, and cucumbers.

Pandey, who launched her venture at the age of 49, initially sought an engaging activity but has since built a recognized enterprise. Her journey highlights the potential for traditional food products to achieve commercial success and contribute to Nepal's export economy.

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I started with ten kilograms of red cherry pepper. Now we produce tonnes of pickles. This year alone, I made 1.5 tonnes of pickle. We bring in tonnes of ingredients such as bamboo shoots, bitter gourd, mangoes and cucumbers to produce.